2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review discusses a classic truck.

Friday, July 25, 2008

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review

The Silverado is a full-size pickup truck that have been on the market for 46 years. It shares its platform with its twin the GMC Sierra 1500. In 2007 the Silverado had its first major redesign in about 8 years. The Silverado was chosen as the "North American Truck of the Year" by a panel of automotive critics in Detroit in 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is the gold standard of pickup trucks, and will most likely be for many years to come. It has just about the best towing capacity in its class, and its low price makes it affordable for just about anyone. If you're looking for a truck, the Silverado should be one of your first considerations, especially with all the upgrades that were added in last years re-design.

What's New For 2008:

XM Radio is now standard. A power driver seat is now available on regular cab models with bench seats. The gauge pointers are now brighter.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Silverado 3 stars for overall dependability. Problems with the last generation included transmissions popping out of gear, and vehicle shake. It was recalled 16 times, but no recalls have been announced for the newest generation so far. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Silverado 1500 received 5 stars in government front and side crash tests. Anti-lock brakes are standard. Side airbags and adjustable pedals are optional. Stability control is standard on crew cabs, and is available on the extended cab.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Updated, nicer interior
+ Stability control widely available option
+ Large towing capacity for class

Cons
- Heavy
- Air Conditioning not standard
- Average reliability

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Dodge Ram 1500 has standard air conditioning, but costs over $3,000 more, lacks power accessories, can't tow as much, and lacks an automatic transmission. The Ford F-150 costs about the same, but lacks a CD player and an automatic transmission. The Toyota Tundra includes traction control, side airbags, AC, and has 40 more hp, but costs over $4,000 more and has less towing capacity.

What Others Are Saying:

"What you notice quickly about the Silverado is how easy it is to drive in traffic, despite its bulk. The tester was 19 feet 2 inches long, so you have to watch it going around corners or you'll bang a rear wheel over a curb, and it's a bear to park." - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

"The Chevy Silverado is redesigned for 2007, featuring a new frame, new styling, new interiors, new suspension and a new anti-lock braking system. The new Silverado offers a nice ride and taut handling." - The New York Times

"That said, if I were in the market for a big four-wheel-drive pickup, the Silverado would be on my short list. I just wonder how it will hold up in comparison to the Tundra. We'll see." - The Dallas Morning News

Read more about the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, March 10, 2008 - Email to a friend

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